A file photo of Vu Quoc Cuong with the free food he offered at his restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City
Vu Quoc Cuong, 46, was the owner of two vegetarian restaurants in District 1. His restaurants were long familiar places for many low-income people in the area. Since the pandemic struck the city, Cuong co-operated with some of his friends to offer free meals to anti-Covid-19 frontline workers.
Cuong was infected with Covid-19 on August 16 and died from the disease on August 22 at a local hospital.Before dying, Cuong still posted on his Facebook account to encourage his friends and relatives to try to overcome this difficult time and continue their charitable work.
Cuong's story has been shared on many newspapers and social websites and moved lots of people.
State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc on August 28 sent a letter of condolences to Cuong's wife, Nguyen Thi Tuyet Lan, and their four children.
In the letter, the state president wrote that he was so sorry to hear about the death of Cuong due to Covid-19. His death did not only show the devastating pandemic but also the bravery and sacrifice of many of Vietnamese people who have risked their lives to help others.
The state official stressed that Cuong had lived a beautiful life and what he did had and would continue to inspire people to live better and contribute more to the community.
"I hope that you and the children will stay strong and overcome this difficult time like what Cuong used to live with his strong belief and kind heart," he wrote. "I’m moved to know that one of your children is also joining in the anti-Covid-19 frontline team of the city. Please try to overcome your sorrow and be proud of your husband and father."
The state president said that he had asked concerned agencies to soon recognise and honour Vu Quoc Cuong for his efforts.
